Even though main draw matches of the Plava Laguna Croatia Open started in Umag on Monday, the city is still reliving the historic success of Croatia’s national football team. Not even Goran Ivanišević, who watched the final of the FIFA World Cup here in Umag, could hide his pride.

Fans watching the World Cup final in Umag (photo: ATP Umag)

When asked about it, the 2001 Wimbledon champion made the following statement: “For a country such as ours, this is a fantastic success. We are second best in the entire world! We have left behind countries like Argentina, Brazil, England, and Germany, all of which are bigger and richer than us. This is a dream come true. Still, the French team was better in the final match and won deservedly. When it comes to sports, you always want to win. Nonetheless, our boys have left their heart on the pitch, and for a small country like ours, that’s a huge success, as it shows our dedication and sacrifice. When you see our football players playing as one, you know that together they can only do great things. Thank you from the heart, the feeling is indescribable.”

The celebrations will continue on Monday evening as part of the Umag Party Nights program, with a concert by Prljavo Kazalište. Over 10,000 people will sing their hit songs such as Heroj ulice, Lupi petama and Mojoj majci, as one, in honor of Croatia’s Fiery Ones.